Prices, Specs and Rivals

Kia really couldn’t make picking or positioning your trim level any easier, using the simple 1, 2, 3, '3 satnav' and 4 designations, KX- in front of those numbers highlights all-wheel drive - and hence the fitting of the 2.0 CRDi turbodiesel engine in either of its two outputs. Prices start at £17,500 for the entry-level two-wheel drive 1 model powered by the 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine, while £21,500 gets you into a KX-1 1.7 CRDi turbodiesel with four-wheel drive.

Those entry-level models shouldn’t be considered mere starting points, as, for many, the equipment list will be comprehensive enough. All Sportage 1s get 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, air conditioning, Bluetooth with audio streaming, cruise control, USB and aux-in ports and rain sensing wipers. Opting for the Sportage 2 brings dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, reversing sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels and part leather upholstery for an additional £2300. Those part-leather seats are full leather in '3' spec, which starts at £23,100, while the reversing sensors are supplemented by a camera, there are heated front and rear seats, Xenon headlights and an Infinity premium sound system. The 3 satnav needs no explaining and adds £800 over the standard 3 specification. Trim 4 starts at £25,000 and gets that satnav too, as well as a self-parking system and an engine start button.

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The class leader in this marketplace is the car that arguably invented it, the Nissan Qashqai taking the bulk of the sales here. Most manufacturers now offer rivals to it and the Sportage, with cars like the Skoda Yeti, Mazda CX-5, Ford Kuga and plenty more besides all aiming to attract buyers in this marketplace.